I’m moving along in terms of getting the electrical systems upgraded in this new-to-me boat. The weather has really been chilly and there have been few moments of spring warmth and sunshine, so getting boat maintenance done is an ok activity.
I’m having a diesel generator installed, rather than depending on a gasoline (petrol) portable generator that is on the swim platform. As I cross the channel and am in salt water, leaving that exposed near the sea water just doesn’t seem to be a wise thing to do. This has been a shoe-horn activity to get it sandwiched into the engine room, but will be protected, quiet, and reliable.
I’m also replacing the original power inverter/charger. As I came to the Medway from Staines, I found that several electronic/electrical things failed (computer charger, a fridge, the microwave, phone charger, etc.). Investigation revealed that the inverter was providing very ‘dirty’ power, and, as I live aboard the boat, I depend on good electrical service. So, remove and replace the heart of the system- sort of like major heart surgery. There is lots of preparation, and there will certainly be a period of adjustment afterwards, but I hope this will make the boat more comfortable to live in.
I spent the weekend delivering my car to Devizes, and visiting friends Nick and Chris Seager, who have become my British ‘guardians’, looking after some of the domestic things that are difficult for a wanderer to deal with. Thanks to them! some photos of our trip together from Staines to the Medway River.
Big water! Very different than the environment of the narrowboat, but I’m excited!
